If you
have ever wondered why one identical twin can develop an autoimmune condition like lupus while the other remains completely healthy, you are asking one of the most critical questions in modern medical science. The answer doesn’t lie within your DNA sequence itself. Instead, it lies in a fascinating field of science known as epigenetics—the study of how your behaviors and environment can cause changes that affect the way your genes work. Today I’ll discuss what this is and what are some environmental triggers that have triggered autoimmune conditions.
What Is Epigenetics?
Your DNA sequence is like a fixed instruction manual. It cannot change the words printed on the pages. Genes, which are nucleotide base pairs of DNA strands, are encoded at conception. They instruct cells on how to build proteins or regulate cell functions. While the genetic code is permanent, gene expression happens throughout life. Gene expression is when the genetic code is actively read and turned into proteins or cell functions.
Epigenetics studies how your behaviors and environment affect gene expression. It acts like a highlighter or a piece of tape. Environmental factors can place physical “tags” (such as DNA methylation or histone modifications) onto your genes, either highlighting them so they are easily read (turned “on”) or taping them shut (turned “off”).
In autoimmune diseases, a person might inherit a genetic susceptibility to a condition, but that gene remains dormant until an external trigger flips the epigenetic switch. It’s why many people say “genes load the gun, but something else pulls the trigger”.
The Real World Triggers
For years, researchers have been mapping a strict relationship between specific external agents and the onset of autoimmune flares. These environmental triggers include:
Physical & Chemical Factors:
Long-term exposure to air pollution, heavy metals, tobacco smoke, and severe UV radiation. In addition, environmental toxins like bisphenol A can alter immune system behavior and lead to autoimmunity.
Biological Elements:
Viral infections like COVID-19, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), herpes simplex virus and others may also trigger autoimmunity through either epitope spreading, molecular mimicry or bystander activation signaling in cells. These viruses have been linked to several autoimmune diseases including rheumatic conditions, multiple sclerosis and lupus. Deep imbalances in the gut microbiome can affect short chain fatty acid production that are needed to turn off pro-inflammatory genes.
The Neuroendocrine Impact:
Chronic, long-term psychological stress is a very common epigenetic trigger for autoimmunity. Stress alters DNA methylation which affects genes that control inflammation signaling and autoantibody production. Additionally oxidative stress impairs DNA repair mechanisms that adds to the epigenetic dysregulation that chronic stress already places on genes.
How To Protect Yourself from Triggers
Even if you already have an autoimmune disease, you can still protect yourself from further exposure. These triggers not only turn on genetic predispositions for developing autoimmune diseases, but they also affect ongoing disease activity. Here are some ideas to help you get started:
- Eat an anti-inflammatory diet to help lower widespread and chronic inflammation in your body. This includes eating a variety of plants, omega-3 rich foods and staying hydrated.
- Work on lowering stress. Regular practices to calm the nervous system like meditation or yoga can go a long way in helping the immune system stay calm.
- Do your best to avoid chemical exposures. Stay away from heavily polluted areas. Wear masks when appropriate. Be aware of heavy metals in food. Quit smoking if you are an active smoker.
- Be vigilant during cold and flu season. Wear masks indoors and avoid overly crowded spaces. If you are not sensitive to vaccines, consider getting vaccinated, especially for vaccines that have been around for a very long time.
While we cannot alter our genes we were born with, we can alter our lifestyles to prevent certain genes from being turned on. If you need help with lifestyle or diet shifts, please contact me for help. Additionally, follow me on Instagram, Facebook and/or YouTube for more information on how to incorporate diet and lifestyle into your healing journey.
THE INFORMATION IN THIS POST IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR THE DIAGNOSIS, TREATMENT OR CARE OF DISEASE BY A MEDICAL PROVIDER. THIS IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. PLEASE CONSULT YOUR QUALIFIED HEALTH PROFESSIONAL FOR ANY CHANGES TO YOUR MEDICAL CARE.
Photo by Warren Umoh on Unsplash
